Question 1

What does Psalms 35:27 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 35:27 calls for those who support the psalmist’s just cause to celebrate and continually praise the LORD, recognizing that God delights in the well-being of his servant. The verse encourages ongoing joy and public acknowledgment of God’s goodness toward those who seek what is right. In this verse, David is speaking, asking that those who stand with him—those who favor his "righteous cause"—would be joyful and glad. The setting is one of conflict, where David is seeking vindication from his enemies. David wants his supporters to keep declaring that the LORD should be “magnified,” or honored, because God takes pleasure in seeing his servant prosper and experience peace.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 35:27

Accepted Answer

"joy" (שָׁמַח, śāmaḥ): This word means to rejoice or be joyful. Here, it highlights the call for emotional, outward celebration among those who support David. "prosperity" (שָׁלוֹם, shālôm): This word is often translated as “peace” or “well-being,” not just material success. It suggests a sense of wholeness or completeness in life, which God desires for his servant. "magnified" (גָּדַל, gādal): This word means to make great or exalt. The verse asks that people continually speak of the LORD’s greatness, especially in how he cares for his faithful ones.

Question 3

Why Psalms 35:27 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse clarifies that God is not indifferent to the well-being of his people; he actually delights in their peace and wholeness, not just their survival. It shows that public praise and ongoing acknowledgment of God’s character are important, especially in times of conflict or struggle. The verse connects personal deliverance with community celebration, suggesting that when God helps one of his servants, it is a reason for all who support what is right to rejoice and give thanks.

Psalms 35:27 (KJV)